Can I enquire throughout the summer holidays for my daughter to start in August?

Yes, we will be delighted to consider applications throughout the course of the summer for a start in the new term in August, although we are now operating a waiting list for our I Senior year group.

So, how long does the admissions process take and what does it entail?

We always endeavour to make the application process as smooth as possible and to administer assessments at the earliest opportunity, especially during the summer break, so that you can prepare for your daughter’s start in August. We would encourage you to apply as soon as possible so as to not miss out on a place for your daughter. The first stage in the admissions process is to complete a registration form, returning it with a photo of your daughter, a copy of her latest school report (if available), and a £50 registration fee. Once the form has been received, we will then arrange an assessment. Our admissions office will ensure that you are kept updated and fully informed at all times throughout the application and assessment process.

How much will I need to pay now?

There is a £50 registration fee to be paid when submitting an application form. This fee covers all administration and assessment costs. The fee can be paid by cash, cheque or bank transfer, and is non-refundable.

What about uniform?

We will be delighted to assist with uniform during the course of the summer holidays. As well as our external uniform suppliers, we also operate a second-hand uniform sale in school which often has pristine items for sale at a fraction of the original cost. Our admissions department will be happy to source items for you from the sale, either by visiting us in person or by providing us with sizes.

And what about signing up to extra-curricular clubs and music lessons etc?

We have a huge array of extra-curricular activities on offer such as music, sport and art activities, and our admissions office will be happy to provide you with a comprehensive list of the activities that your daughter can take part in. They prove to be very popular so be sure to sign up early!

Should I be worried that my daughter won’t have met her class-mates before starting in August?

It is natural as a parent to be apprehensive about your daughter’s transition to a new school, especially if she has not had the opportunity to meet her new classmates. The small size of our school and our small class sizes means that new girls settle into life at St Margaret’s very quickly. The pastoral care at St Margaret’s is second to none, and our Guidance team and expert staff provide the girls with the support that they need in every aspect of school life. Staff closely observe new girls (and indeed all our girls) to ensure that they are settling in well to their new school or year group. All of our girls have been new girls themselves at some point, and they offer a warm welcome to their new classmates. New girls are often surprised at how quickly they settle in and become part of the St Margaret’s community.

If my daughter is waiting for her exam results should I enquire now or wait until she has the results?

We would encourage you to apply while waiting for exam results, as we can offer places based on a girl’s report or reference from her current school, as well as on the basis of prelim exam results. Please do not hesitate to be in touch with our admissions office at any point during a girl’s education should you be interested in a place for your daughter.

How do St Margaret’s exam results compare to other schools in Aberdeen?

The academic attainment at St Margaret’s is high, and this is reflected in our very impressive set of exam results for 2016: our pass rate at National 5 level was 99%; at Higher Level 96%, and at Advanced Higher 94%. At the end of last year, The Sunday Times ranked St Margaret’s as the highest performing independent school in Aberdeen in SQA exam results, and the third highest in Scotland.

As I’ll be a new parent are there opportunities to meet other St Margaret’s parents?

St Margaret’s is often described as a “family” school, and we have a vibrant and supportive school community. Our PTA is an excellent way to meet other parents, as well as meeting teachers and finding out more about the culture and ethos of the school, and it also creates social opportunities for parents and children to enjoy in an informal environment. The PTA organise fun events such as ceilidhs, quiz nights and beetle drives which are always popular with our families, but are also attended by our staff, former pupils and friends of St Margaret’s. The numerous school events that take place throughout the school year, such as our musical concerts, also affords parents the opportunity to meet and spend time with other parents and their children whilst celebrating the achievements of our girls.